10 answers
Jianna
Student
1
Question
Asked
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How can i know which career i want is best for me?
I just feel like in future i wont like what i will be doing.
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10 answers
Samira Hasnain
Content Writer | Aspiring Clinical Psychologist
16
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Samira’s Answer
For some people, it's as simple as 'knowing' it. They're naturally inclined towards a career path and feel like it's their calling. For others, it's more of a multifaceted process, involving lots of guidance, research, and trial and error. I'd say, for students, it's often best to talk to a professional career counselor/psychologist trained in career and vocational counseling. Using assessments and tools, these individuals can help you discover and understand your skills, talent, and most importantly, your interests. I'd also suggest learning about yourself on your own and leaning into self-discovery. This advice is highly underrated and I wish it were given more often. You can also look up courses/short classes/volunteering opportunities regarding the subjects/professions that interest you. And remember, it's okay to try multiple things until you figure out what career interests you. And, it's okay to switch careers too!
https://www.viacharacter.org/
https://www.careerfitter.com/career-tests/the-big-5-personality-test
Samira recommends the following next steps:
Afrad Mahamed
Operations & Project Management
80
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
Hi Jianna -
It's great that you're thinking about this early. Right can mean many things and differ from one person to another, so you need to ponder what's 'right' in your mind. I'd venture a mixture of something you enjoy that would provide you sufficient income.
I recommend experiencing as many of the things you're even remotely interested in. This will increase your understanding of how they are in the real world, vs what you hear or may read about. Take opportunities to do internships, site visits, volunteer, interview professionals or anything that would allow you to witness employees in the field. YouTube has a lot of videos on almost any field or job, where professionals walk through how they perform their duties. Keep in mind this is not a guaranteed formula to give you that 'epiphany' that you seek, but it would greatly increase the probability of that happening.
At times, simply traveling this path of discovery is what's needed to highlight opportunities for us and trigger what we may need.
On the other hand, spend time thinking about what is important to you. What about a job or career do you value most? Money, impact (making a difference), low demand, being famous, etc. Once you know what's most important to you, that will help you further narrow down the best career for you.
Hope this helps, best of luck!
It's great that you're thinking about this early. Right can mean many things and differ from one person to another, so you need to ponder what's 'right' in your mind. I'd venture a mixture of something you enjoy that would provide you sufficient income.
I recommend experiencing as many of the things you're even remotely interested in. This will increase your understanding of how they are in the real world, vs what you hear or may read about. Take opportunities to do internships, site visits, volunteer, interview professionals or anything that would allow you to witness employees in the field. YouTube has a lot of videos on almost any field or job, where professionals walk through how they perform their duties. Keep in mind this is not a guaranteed formula to give you that 'epiphany' that you seek, but it would greatly increase the probability of that happening.
At times, simply traveling this path of discovery is what's needed to highlight opportunities for us and trigger what we may need.
On the other hand, spend time thinking about what is important to you. What about a job or career do you value most? Money, impact (making a difference), low demand, being famous, etc. Once you know what's most important to you, that will help you further narrow down the best career for you.
Hope this helps, best of luck!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6180
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jianna!
Identifying the Right Career for You
Reflecting on Your Interests and Values
To determine which career is best for you, start by reflecting on your interests, values, and strengths. Ask yourself:
What activities do I enjoy doing in my free time?
What are my core values, and what kind of work environment and culture align with them?
What are my strengths and skills, and how can I utilize them in a career?
Exploring Career Options
Research different careers that align with your interests, values, and strengths. You can:
Browse online resources such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook or O*NET to explore various careers and their job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth prospects.
Network with people in your desired field through informational interviews or job shadowing to gain insights into their daily work lives.
Take career assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory to identify potential career paths.
Gaining Practical Experience
Gain practical experience in your desired field through:
Internships or volunteer work to test your skills and interests in a real-world setting.
Part-time or freelance work to build your portfolio and gain industry connections.
Job shadowing or mentoring programs to learn from experienced professionals.
Evaluating Your Career Choices
Evaluate your career choices by considering factors such as:
Job satisfaction and work-life balance
Salary and benefits
Growth opportunities and career advancement
Alignment with your values and long-term goals
Creating a Career Roadmap
Create a career roadmap by:
Setting short-term and long-term career goals
Identifying the skills and education required to achieve your goals
Developing a plan to acquire the necessary skills and experience
Staying Open-Minded and Adaptable
Remember that your career path may evolve over time. Stay open-minded and adaptable by:
Continuously learning and developing new skills
Being willing to pivot or adjust your career path as needed
Embracing new opportunities and challenges
Authoritative References Used:
Occupational Outlook Handbook
O*NET
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) (Print)
God Bless You,
JC.
Identifying the Right Career for You
Reflecting on Your Interests and Values
To determine which career is best for you, start by reflecting on your interests, values, and strengths. Ask yourself:
What activities do I enjoy doing in my free time?
What are my core values, and what kind of work environment and culture align with them?
What are my strengths and skills, and how can I utilize them in a career?
Exploring Career Options
Research different careers that align with your interests, values, and strengths. You can:
Browse online resources such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook or O*NET to explore various careers and their job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth prospects.
Network with people in your desired field through informational interviews or job shadowing to gain insights into their daily work lives.
Take career assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory to identify potential career paths.
Gaining Practical Experience
Gain practical experience in your desired field through:
Internships or volunteer work to test your skills and interests in a real-world setting.
Part-time or freelance work to build your portfolio and gain industry connections.
Job shadowing or mentoring programs to learn from experienced professionals.
Evaluating Your Career Choices
Evaluate your career choices by considering factors such as:
Job satisfaction and work-life balance
Salary and benefits
Growth opportunities and career advancement
Alignment with your values and long-term goals
Creating a Career Roadmap
Create a career roadmap by:
Setting short-term and long-term career goals
Identifying the skills and education required to achieve your goals
Developing a plan to acquire the necessary skills and experience
Staying Open-Minded and Adaptable
Remember that your career path may evolve over time. Stay open-minded and adaptable by:
Continuously learning and developing new skills
Being willing to pivot or adjust your career path as needed
Embracing new opportunities and challenges
Authoritative References Used:
Occupational Outlook Handbook
O*NET
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) (Print)
God Bless You,
JC.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
549
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Jianna,
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your future career. Many people go through this. Here are some steps to help you explore your options and make an informed decision:
Self-Discovery:
Identify your passions and interests: What activities do you enjoy? What topics fascinate you?
Discover your strengths and weaknesses: What are you naturally good at? What areas do you need to improve?
Explore your values: What matters most to you in life? How do your values align with potential career paths?
Career Exploration:
Research different career paths: Explore various industries and job roles.
Talk to people in different professions: Learn about their experiences and daily routines.
Consider your skills and education: What qualifications do you need for your desired career?
Take career aptitude tests: Online tests can provide insights into potential career matches.
Practical Steps:
Gain work experience: Internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering can help you explore different fields.
Network with professionals: Building relationships can open doors to new opportunities.
Continuously learn and develop: Stay updated on industry trends and acquire new skills.
Be open to change: Your career path may evolve over time.
Do not forget, it's okay to not have all the answers right now. The most important thing is to start exploring your options and taking steps towards a career that aligns with your goals and values.
Best wishes!
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your future career. Many people go through this. Here are some steps to help you explore your options and make an informed decision:
Self-Discovery:
Identify your passions and interests: What activities do you enjoy? What topics fascinate you?
Discover your strengths and weaknesses: What are you naturally good at? What areas do you need to improve?
Explore your values: What matters most to you in life? How do your values align with potential career paths?
Career Exploration:
Research different career paths: Explore various industries and job roles.
Talk to people in different professions: Learn about their experiences and daily routines.
Consider your skills and education: What qualifications do you need for your desired career?
Take career aptitude tests: Online tests can provide insights into potential career matches.
Practical Steps:
Gain work experience: Internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering can help you explore different fields.
Network with professionals: Building relationships can open doors to new opportunities.
Continuously learn and develop: Stay updated on industry trends and acquire new skills.
Be open to change: Your career path may evolve over time.
Do not forget, it's okay to not have all the answers right now. The most important thing is to start exploring your options and taking steps towards a career that aligns with your goals and values.
Best wishes!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1816
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. The best career to you is what you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Tukaram Pechaki
9
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Tukaram’s Answer
firstly thinnk what are the your strengths, Identify your goals and values. Reflect on your passions. When considering the best career path for you, start by thinking about your passions and interests. Make connections with people in your preferred industry.
Ayomide Julius
Sales attendant
9
Answers
Oyo, Nigeria
Updated
Ayomide’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about choosing a career, especially when considering the long-term implications. The key is to approach this decision thoughtfully and proactively. Here are some steps you can take to help determine which career might be the best fit for you:
1. Self-Reflection and Assessment:
Identify Interests and Passions: Think about what activities or subjects you enjoy. What do you naturally gravitate towards in your free time? Consider hobbies, school subjects, or topics you love discussing.
Assess Your Strengths: Consider what you're good at. This could include skills you excel in at school, tasks you find easy that others struggle with, or feedback you've received from teachers or peers.
Values and Priorities: Reflect on what matters most to you in a career. This could be job security, work-life balance, creativity, helping others, financial reward, or something else. Knowing your values can help you align your career choice with what will bring you satisfaction.
2. Explore Different Careers:
Research: Look into different careers that interest you. Read about the day-to-day tasks, required skills, and typical work environments. Websites like the Occupational Outlook Handbook or career exploration tools can provide detailed information.
Informational Interviews: Talk to professionals in fields you’re interested in. Ask them about their career paths, what they enjoy, what challenges they face, and what advice they would give to someone considering the same career.
Shadowing: If possible, shadow someone in a career you're interested in. This can give you a first-hand look at what the job is really like.
3. Experiment and Gain Experience:
Internships and Part-Time Jobs: Even if they're not directly in the field you're considering, these experiences can provide valuable insights into the work environment and help you understand what you like or dislike in a job.
Volunteering: Volunteering can offer exposure to different industries and roles, while also helping you build skills and make connections.
Side Projects: Start a small project related to a career you're interested in. For example, if you're considering graphic design, try creating some designs for a personal project or for friends.
4. Consider Future Trends and Job Market:
Industry Trends: Look at how industries are evolving. Are there growing fields that match your interests? Understanding where job opportunities are likely to be abundant in the future can help guide your decision.
Longevity of Interest: Think about whether you can see yourself growing in a particular field. While it's hard to predict, consider whether the career has potential for growth and whether it can evolve with your interests.
5. Education and Skill Requirements:
Education Path: Consider what level of education is required for careers that interest you. Are you willing to pursue the necessary degrees or certifications?
Skills Development: Assess whether you are willing to develop the necessary skills. For example, if a career requires a lot of technical skills, are you interested in acquiring and honing those skills?
6. Use Career Assessments:
Career Tests: Tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong Interest Inventory, or Holland Code can help you identify careers that align with your personality, interests, and strengths. While these tests aren't definitive answers, they can provide useful insights.
7. Talk to a Career Counselor or Coach:
Guidance: A career counselor or coach can help you navigate your options, clarify your thoughts, and provide resources tailored to your situation. They can also help you explore different career paths in a structured way.
8. Accept That It’s Okay to Change:
Be Open to Change: Understand that career paths are not always linear. Many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. What you choose now doesn’t have to be forever, so don't be afraid to explore and adjust as you grow and learn more about yourself.
9. Reflect on Potential Discontent:
Identify Concerns: Consider why you think you might not like what you’ll be doing in the future. Are these based on fears or negative perceptions? Addressing these concerns early can help you make a more informed decision.
Flexibility: Choose a career that allows flexibility and growth. If you’re worried about getting stuck, look for fields that offer various pathways or allow you to pivot within the industry.
Final Thought:
Choosing a career is a significant decision, but it’s also one that can evolve over time. The most important thing is to stay curious, keep learning about yourself and the world of work, and remain open to new opportunities as they arise.
1. Self-Reflection and Assessment:
Identify Interests and Passions: Think about what activities or subjects you enjoy. What do you naturally gravitate towards in your free time? Consider hobbies, school subjects, or topics you love discussing.
Assess Your Strengths: Consider what you're good at. This could include skills you excel in at school, tasks you find easy that others struggle with, or feedback you've received from teachers or peers.
Values and Priorities: Reflect on what matters most to you in a career. This could be job security, work-life balance, creativity, helping others, financial reward, or something else. Knowing your values can help you align your career choice with what will bring you satisfaction.
2. Explore Different Careers:
Research: Look into different careers that interest you. Read about the day-to-day tasks, required skills, and typical work environments. Websites like the Occupational Outlook Handbook or career exploration tools can provide detailed information.
Informational Interviews: Talk to professionals in fields you’re interested in. Ask them about their career paths, what they enjoy, what challenges they face, and what advice they would give to someone considering the same career.
Shadowing: If possible, shadow someone in a career you're interested in. This can give you a first-hand look at what the job is really like.
3. Experiment and Gain Experience:
Internships and Part-Time Jobs: Even if they're not directly in the field you're considering, these experiences can provide valuable insights into the work environment and help you understand what you like or dislike in a job.
Volunteering: Volunteering can offer exposure to different industries and roles, while also helping you build skills and make connections.
Side Projects: Start a small project related to a career you're interested in. For example, if you're considering graphic design, try creating some designs for a personal project or for friends.
4. Consider Future Trends and Job Market:
Industry Trends: Look at how industries are evolving. Are there growing fields that match your interests? Understanding where job opportunities are likely to be abundant in the future can help guide your decision.
Longevity of Interest: Think about whether you can see yourself growing in a particular field. While it's hard to predict, consider whether the career has potential for growth and whether it can evolve with your interests.
5. Education and Skill Requirements:
Education Path: Consider what level of education is required for careers that interest you. Are you willing to pursue the necessary degrees or certifications?
Skills Development: Assess whether you are willing to develop the necessary skills. For example, if a career requires a lot of technical skills, are you interested in acquiring and honing those skills?
6. Use Career Assessments:
Career Tests: Tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong Interest Inventory, or Holland Code can help you identify careers that align with your personality, interests, and strengths. While these tests aren't definitive answers, they can provide useful insights.
7. Talk to a Career Counselor or Coach:
Guidance: A career counselor or coach can help you navigate your options, clarify your thoughts, and provide resources tailored to your situation. They can also help you explore different career paths in a structured way.
8. Accept That It’s Okay to Change:
Be Open to Change: Understand that career paths are not always linear. Many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. What you choose now doesn’t have to be forever, so don't be afraid to explore and adjust as you grow and learn more about yourself.
9. Reflect on Potential Discontent:
Identify Concerns: Consider why you think you might not like what you’ll be doing in the future. Are these based on fears or negative perceptions? Addressing these concerns early can help you make a more informed decision.
Flexibility: Choose a career that allows flexibility and growth. If you’re worried about getting stuck, look for fields that offer various pathways or allow you to pivot within the industry.
Final Thought:
Choosing a career is a significant decision, but it’s also one that can evolve over time. The most important thing is to stay curious, keep learning about yourself and the world of work, and remain open to new opportunities as they arise.
Linto K David
6
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Linto K’s Answer
Here are some actions you can consider:
1. Contemplate what you're truly passionate about.
2. Get a clear understanding of your financial objectives.
3. Compile a list of potential job opportunities.
4. Consult with a career advisor or professional.
5. Expand your connections using LinkedIn.
I trust this will be beneficial for you.
Best of luck.
1. Contemplate what you're truly passionate about.
2. Get a clear understanding of your financial objectives.
3. Compile a list of potential job opportunities.
4. Consult with a career advisor or professional.
5. Expand your connections using LinkedIn.
I trust this will be beneficial for you.
Best of luck.
Cameron Z.
9
Answers
Updated
Cameron’s Answer
Hello Jianna,
Highly recommend reading "Range" by David Esptein. Essentially he explains that generalist (people who have knowledge in multiple domains) are typically the people we deem are successful and happy in their careers than those who are specialist (those that focus on one domain too quickly). There's also plenty of talks of him giving about the book's topic matter. I am a nursing student and former psych tech and nursing is a great field to look into. Due to being acquitted with a general skill set and will be able to choose whatever nursing specialty later on after you get your nursing license.
Highly recommend reading "Range" by David Esptein. Essentially he explains that generalist (people who have knowledge in multiple domains) are typically the people we deem are successful and happy in their careers than those who are specialist (those that focus on one domain too quickly). There's also plenty of talks of him giving about the book's topic matter. I am a nursing student and former psych tech and nursing is a great field to look into. Due to being acquitted with a general skill set and will be able to choose whatever nursing specialty later on after you get your nursing license.
Kimberly Vides
Junior Cybersecurity Analyst
11
Answers
Gainesville, Florida
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hello Jiana!
Figuring out the best career for you can seem challenging, but there are several steps you can take to make an informed decision and feel more confident about your choice. Here are some suggestions:
1. Know Yourself Using the Ikigai Method
Ikigai: This Japanese concept means "reason for being" and can help you find a career that combines what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Four Pillars of Ikigai:
1.Passion: What do you love doing?
2.Mission: What does the world need that you are passionate about?
3.Vocation: What can you be paid for?
4.Profession: What are you good at?
How It Helps: By answering these questions, you can identify a career that brings you satisfaction and purpose. You can explore the Ikigai method for free on sites like Ikigai Test or seek guidance on platforms like MindTools.
2. Explore Your Options
- Career Resources and Aptitude Tests: Use resources like CareerOneStop and MyNextMove to take free aptitude tests and gain a better understanding of your interests and skills.
- Statistical Data: Check out employment statistics and projections on sites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to see the future outlook of various professions in terms of economy and development over the next 10 years. This will help you understand the stability and growth potential of the careers you're considering.
3. Gain Experience
- Volunteering and Internships: Participate in volunteer programs or seek internships in areas that interest you. This will give you a clearer idea of what the daily work entails.
- Projects and Courses: Work on personal projects or take online courses in fields that intrigue you. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer a variety of free courses.
4. Reflect and Evaluate
- Continuous Evaluation: As you gather more information and experience, reflect on how you feel about each option. Can you see yourself doing this job long-term?
- Consider the Future: Think about the growth opportunities and stability in the careers you're considering. Research market trends and future demands.
5. Seek Support
- Mentors and Advisors: Talk to mentors, school counselors, or career advisors. They can offer valuable insights and help you navigate your options.
- Family and Guardians: Don't hesitate to discuss your thoughts with your parents or guardians. They can provide valuable advice and support, always looking out for your best interests.
"Additional Resources"
- CareerVillage.org: This is a fantastic platform where you can ask career-related questions and receive answers from professionals in the field.
- MyNextMove.org: Offers interest assessments and detailed career descriptions.
- Job Shadowing: Explore opportunities to shadow a professional for a day to get a first-hand view of their job.
- Ikigai Test: Ikigai Test to explore your passion, mission, vocation, and profession.
- MindTools: MindTools for additional career guidance and personal development resources.
Remember, it’s normal to feel uncertain about the future. Taking the time to explore and reflect will help you make more informed decisions and find a career you truly enjoy.
Good luck on your journey!
Figuring out the best career for you can seem challenging, but there are several steps you can take to make an informed decision and feel more confident about your choice. Here are some suggestions:
1. Know Yourself Using the Ikigai Method
Ikigai: This Japanese concept means "reason for being" and can help you find a career that combines what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Four Pillars of Ikigai:
1.Passion: What do you love doing?
2.Mission: What does the world need that you are passionate about?
3.Vocation: What can you be paid for?
4.Profession: What are you good at?
How It Helps: By answering these questions, you can identify a career that brings you satisfaction and purpose. You can explore the Ikigai method for free on sites like Ikigai Test or seek guidance on platforms like MindTools.
2. Explore Your Options
- Career Resources and Aptitude Tests: Use resources like CareerOneStop and MyNextMove to take free aptitude tests and gain a better understanding of your interests and skills.
- Statistical Data: Check out employment statistics and projections on sites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to see the future outlook of various professions in terms of economy and development over the next 10 years. This will help you understand the stability and growth potential of the careers you're considering.
3. Gain Experience
- Volunteering and Internships: Participate in volunteer programs or seek internships in areas that interest you. This will give you a clearer idea of what the daily work entails.
- Projects and Courses: Work on personal projects or take online courses in fields that intrigue you. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer a variety of free courses.
4. Reflect and Evaluate
- Continuous Evaluation: As you gather more information and experience, reflect on how you feel about each option. Can you see yourself doing this job long-term?
- Consider the Future: Think about the growth opportunities and stability in the careers you're considering. Research market trends and future demands.
5. Seek Support
- Mentors and Advisors: Talk to mentors, school counselors, or career advisors. They can offer valuable insights and help you navigate your options.
- Family and Guardians: Don't hesitate to discuss your thoughts with your parents or guardians. They can provide valuable advice and support, always looking out for your best interests.
"Additional Resources"
- CareerVillage.org: This is a fantastic platform where you can ask career-related questions and receive answers from professionals in the field.
- MyNextMove.org: Offers interest assessments and detailed career descriptions.
- Job Shadowing: Explore opportunities to shadow a professional for a day to get a first-hand view of their job.
- Ikigai Test: Ikigai Test to explore your passion, mission, vocation, and profession.
- MindTools: MindTools for additional career guidance and personal development resources.
Remember, it’s normal to feel uncertain about the future. Taking the time to explore and reflect will help you make more informed decisions and find a career you truly enjoy.
Good luck on your journey!